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Lockdown might have reduced some of the activities we are able to do, but there is one thing no social distancing requirements can take away from us...reading!
For those avid readers in the shire that are starting to run out of reading options, there's good news - you can still continue to access the Parkes Shire Library collections, even though you can't visit in person.
The library may be closed to the public due to the current COVID-19 restrictions in place, but staff are working hard behind the scenes to still deliver a service to their patrons.
Members can access an extensive online collection of eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, or the latest eMagazines at My Online Library on Council's website.
If you haven't accessed our online collection before, head on over to the Parkes Shire Libraries Facebook page to watch the instructional video or give the team a call on 02 6861 2309 to talk you through the process.
Story Time and Rhymetime are continuing in an online format, so like and follow the Parkes Shire Libraries Facebook page to watch these wonderful online programs delivered by the Library staff.
Cultural, Education and Library Services manager Kerryn Jones said it was important people all across the shire have access to activities while they are at home in lockdown, highlighting there are plenty of free options the libraries provide.
"We understand that some of our members are not able to access our online collection, so we are starting a housebound service," said Ms Jones.
"This will be a COVID-Safe contactless drop-off of library materials - books, audio books and DVDs - to your home.
"The service is beginning in Parkes from Thursday September 2, and will be rolled out in Peak Hill, Trundle and Tullamore shortly.
"If you are interested in having library materials delivered to your home, please give the library staff a call, so we can put you on our delivery list.
"You can select your items from our web catalogue at https://parkes.libero.com.au/ or you can give us a call and let us know what books you would like," Ms Jones said.
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The Parkes Shire Council also recognises that many families and children within the shire are currently having to isolate at home and could be a little bored.
"We've been working with the Parkes Police, Idler's Den and Games N More in Orange to create Boredom Buster packs for families with young children who are in isolation," said Ms Jones.
"These packs include colouring in books, pencils and craft materials for children to use, as well as board games available for loan.
"If you are in isolation with young non-school aged children, give the Library a call on 02 6861 2309 to arrange the delivery of a 'Boredom Buster' pack right to your door," Ms Jones added.
If you aren't a current member that's okay!
Just give the staff at the Parkes Library a call and they can join you up over the phone - it is a completely free public service available to all.
Here at the Parkes Champion Post when we aren't busy writing, you can probably guess we are VERY avid readers of a wide array of topics - and we've got you sorted if you are looking for some suggestions on what to read.
All the books mentioned are available on the library's online catalogue.
Australian fiction
The Dry, The Lost Man, The Survivors, Force of Nature - Jane Harper
These immensely popular crime fiction books are superbly written and Harper describes Australian scenes (of fictional rural towns that are rooted in reality) with eloquent, descriptive prose. Her first book, The Dry, is also now a major motion picture starring Eric Bana - so you can watch the book in action once you've finished!
International fiction
The President's Daughter - James Patterson and Bill Clinton
If you need an easy-to-read page turner, James Patterson is your man. This brand new book, written by Patterson and former US president Bill Clinton, kept us up very late at night because it was just impossible to put down! A thriller with plenty of plot twists that will keep you occupied for hours.
Australian non-fiction
Mawson, Eureka, Burke and Wills - Peter Fitzsimons
If you're looking to learn more about Australian history, and don't want to be bogged down in lots of facts and figures, any Peter Fitzsimons book will be right up your alley. He finds a way to write about history in an engaging way that is always rooted in personal stories that aren't overwhelmed with source material. The story behind our exploration of Antarctica through Douglas Mawson is particularly fascinating.
International non-fiction
The Second World War - Antony Beevor
We love military history here at the Parkes Champion Post, and this is one of the most comprehensive WWII books ever written. Beevor's history books are detailed, thorough but most importantly, fascinating to read because he covers every aspect of the war and its impact on the world.
Children
The Wolf Girl series - Anh Do
Australian funny man, writer and painter Anh Do has multiple series out at the moment, and they are all super popular with the little ones! Into the Wild is the first book in the series, and after disaster separates Gwen from her family, she must fend for herself with the help of a few animal companions.
Shockingly Good Stories - R.A. Spratt
This collection of twenty short stories is perfect for kids who want to go on a hilarious literary journey!
Young Adult
They Both Die in the End - Adam Silvera
This book by New York Time bestselling author Adam Silvera reminds us that there's no life without death and no love without loss in this devastating yet uplifting story about two people whose lives change over the course of one unforgettable day.
Chain of Gold - Cassandra Clare
Any teen who enjoys reading fantasy and paranormal books will absolutely love this story about a Shadowhunter.
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